Ohio Elections Chief Jon Husted Joins 2018 Race For Governor

Ohio Secretary of State Jon Husted (HYOO'-sted) is entering the race for Ohio governor.

The Republican becomes the second candidate to join the 2018 GOP field in what is expected to be a crowded race to replace GOP Gov. John Kasich (KAY'-sik), who's term-limited. It's a political hot seat nationally that's seen Husted buffeted between criticism by voting rights advocates and by a fellow Republican president.

Husted plans 10 public events around the state this week as part of an "announcement tour", starting in Dayton on Monday and ending in Circleville on Thursday.

Husted joins U.S. Rep. Jim Renacci, of Wadsworth, in seeking the Republican nomination.

A handful of Democrats have already announced their 2018 gubernatorial aspirations, including former Congresswoman Betty Sutton, state Sen. Joe Schiavoni are vying for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination. "This week, we want to give as many Ohioans as possible the opportunity to hear his positive vision for state's future as he launches his campaign to be our next Governor".

Kasich has pledged he'll endorse his own lieutenant governor, the 51-year-old Taylor, in her bid.

The Republican primary will be held May 8, 2018 and the general election is November 6, 2018.

Husted closes his video with a hint at his younger age, saying, "It's time for new ideas and a new generation of leadership".